The proposed bill would amend current election statutes by incorporating voting centers into the random selection process for hand count audits. Specifically, it would allow for ballots to be selected from both precincts and voting centers, ensuring that the selection process is transparent by requiring the unofficial vote totals from all voting centers to be made public prior to the selection. Additionally, the bill mandates that the hand count audit must commence immediately after the selection of precincts or voting centers, with specific provisions for early ballot audits to begin within 24 hours after tabulation.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the timeline for conducting hand counts, ensuring they start promptly after the selection process, and clarifies that the hand counts must be completed before the election canvassing. It also includes technical and conforming changes to existing language, while maintaining the overall structure of the current law. The changes aim to enhance the integrity and transparency of the election process in Arizona.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-602
House Engrossed Version: 16-602